Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faced scrutiny from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch over a recent increase in welfare spending and his government’s reversal on welfare reform, following the disclosure of internal communications involving Labour MPs. The exchanges, revealed during Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday, included messages from Labour MP Pat McFadden to Lord Peter Mandelson expressing frustration that some colleagues appeared primarily concerned with identifying “who can we tax in order to pay benefits to others.”

Badenoch cited a £20 billion rise in the welfare bill since Starmer assumed office and accused the Prime Minister of capitulating to Labour MPs opposed to reducing benefits. She questioned whether the government’s retreat on welfare reform marked a loss of authority for Starmer, specifically asking if he agreed with his Welfare Secretary's assessment that the moment signaled a breakdown in leadership.

In response, Starmer defended his administration’s record, highlighting improvements in areas such as NHS waiting times and economic growth. He criticized the previous Conservative government for what he described as a “broken” welfare system with unsustainable costs. Starmer emphasized that his government’s approach prioritizes supporting individuals to improve their lives rather than merely focusing on entitlement to benefits, affirming the stance of the Work and Pensions Secretary on this matter.

The exchange coincided with the release of files related to Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the United States, which also raised questions about Starmer’s use of communication tools. Downing Street acknowledged the limited number of written messages between Starmer and Mandelson was due to the Prime Minister’s use of WhatsApp messages that automatically disappear. Badenoch seized on this point, dubbing Starmer the “disappearing PM” and accusing his administration of withholding potentially vital records.

Badenoch’s office indicated plans to investigate the missing communications further, suggesting the possibility of pursuing contempt of Parliament charges if the government fails to provide a full account. A spokesperson for Badenoch stated that government business ought to be conducted on official phones, where no disappearing messages are used, and criticized the absence of a record documenting when Mandelson’s appointment decision was made.

The controversy adds to mounting political pressure on Starmer’s leadership amid ongoing debates over welfare policy and government transparency.